Newy opened Eagle location of a Utah HQ'd chain with over 100 stores, this one the second in Idaho. (The first in The Village in Meridian opened last Fall.) They were busy with locals, like us, taking advantage of BOGO coupons to bring in customers before the grand opening (8/8/26) to help get things ironed out for the friendly, if still a little reticent, young staff. Based on our visit, they are well on their way. My husband and I are not chain food fans but Zao is one we will use occasionally for take-away given healthy'ish options and easy access.
THE MENU and $: Zao has Asian Cafe (or Grill depending on listing) as part of the name but there is also a distinctly Mexican fusion set of ingredients. They offer bowls, wraps, salads, tacos (wheat tortillas), soup that starts with good broth and sides like pot stickers (chicken). The base price for bowls, always our order, is about $11.00 and up if you choose extras. Portion sizes are generous at the price point.
THE FOOD: In a service model like MOD pizza or Chipotle, you start by telling the people behind the counter what you want (bowl, etc) and what you choose as base (brown or white rice, yakisoba noodles, rice noodles or cucumber or combine two ) and as you walk down the line you'll choose protein (two portions are added and they can be of different kinds) of chicken (white meat), steak, tofu or braised pork (a smokey flavor) and often also a limited time special protein. Broccoli is offered as option for all, then a sauce of your choice from about six options, then veg toppings like carrots, corn, pickled onions and cilantro. There are options that work for people who are Gluten Free and also for vegetarians. The ingredients are always fresh looking and tasting. My only tip is to note that the rice noodles can often be overcooked. Alas.
THE DRILL: Food is served in heavy paper / cardboard bowls to carry to a table. If you're ordering to go, they put a tightly sealed, no leak, lid on top. The ring up and pay is at the end of that line. The station for serve yourself water, napkins and utensils is right there too. (Beverages are all soft. ) If you're dining in, bus your own.
VIBE & SEATING: This space is newly built in a complex in Eagle that is all fast food or fast casual chain restaurants. (Chick Fil A, Mo Betta and Panera are here too, as example.) This location has more seating and better options than the Meridian store for kinds of from high fixed stool counters, to standard table height with chairs. It is bright with windows on two sides. There is also a small patio on the side. Sparkling clean all around as staff keeps it tidied up during service hours.
PARKING: Private lot but it will fill up fast at peak times given all the fast food places going in here.
ACCESSIBILITY: Two accessible parking spots near the door, one van accessible. Accessible route to the order counter, check out is at standard height. Some tables with moveable chairs look like they would work for customers using wheelchairs.
PS TIP - HANDEL'S ICE CREAM IS GOING IN NEXT DOOR! The first Idaho location for this outstanding ice cream brand is being finished up (August) and should be open in September'ish. It will be super busy and add to the parking challenge. (There is a scoop of black cherry with my name on it.) read more